Microsoft Launches New PC Game Download Store
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CREDIT: Microsoft |
While Microsoft's gaming efforts are most widely seen in the Xbox 360 game console, the company is still invested in PC gaming. Microsoft has just relaunched an entire gaming portal where PC gamers can buy and download games.
The Games for Windows Marketplace, as it's called, will operate similar to the Steam network run by Valve. Users with a Windows Live ID don't even need to start a new account; they can login directly. Once inside, users will find over 100 titles available for purchase, many at a discount, and immediate download .
"With Games for Windows Marketplace, we set out to create a digital store built for PC gamers end-to-end," said Kevin Unangst, senior global director of PC and Mobile Gaming at Microsoft, in a company statement. "And by integrating with our existing Xbox LIVE and Windows Live services, we've made it easier than ever for millions of gamers to see for themselves how easy buying PC games can be."
Games for Windows Marketplace isn't actually an entirely new service. It's actually an overhaul of the previous Games for Windows website, which only offered 50-60 titles. The new storefront isn't just designed to house more games , though; it also offers faster downloads and has a better navigation interface. Microsoft is also putting emphasis on weekly "screaming deals," though it remains to be see if those will be screams of delight or outrage among the gaming community.
Microsoft promises popular titles such as Fable: The Lost Chapters, Max Payne, Deus Ex and Grand Theft Auto III, along with content from studios such as Capcom, 2K Games and Square Enix. Microsoft will feature classic and current titles and even promises to feature games from independent developers.
Games for Windows Marketplace will launch November 15.
